140 Years of Ruddocks: Chairman Henry Ruddock Reflects on Legacy, Change, and Commitment

Over the past year, Lincoln-based creative production agency Ruddocks has been celebrating its 140th anniversary. As those celebrations draw to a close, Chairman Henry Ruddock reflects on the company’s journey and shares his perspective on the history, values, and continued evolution of one of Lincoln’s longest-standing family businesses.

Q: What does reaching 140 years in business mean to you personally?

Henry: When you say 140 years and think about how long that actually is, it’s incredible. Through so many ups and downs, we’ve stood the test of time. I read recently that the average lifespan of a business is just 8.6 years, which makes this milestone all the more special. It tells me we’re serious about what we do, and good at it too. Personally, I’m delighted to be part of a team that’s achieved so much. I hope I’ve played a small part in that success

Q: Are there any milestones that stand out for you?

Henry: Surviving the 2000s was an achievement in itself. That period was tough; the rise of the internet, cheaper printing technology, and increased competition created a “race to the bottom.” But we believed in the business and kept going.

Another big moment was installing our five-colour press in 2011. It revolutionised our production and is still one of the best-maintained machines in the country, thanks to the pride our team takes in their work.

I’m also proud of the people we’ve brought on board, like Paul [Banton, Managing Director] and Tris [Palser, Sales Director], and the customers who’ve stayed with us for decades. We never take them for granted.

Q: What’s helped Ruddocks survive and thrive for 140 years?

Henry: Knowing what to change and what not to. Businesses can’t stand still, but staying true to your core values is hugely important.

Listening to customers is fundamental. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions; we tailor everything. That approach, and the long-term relationships it builds, have been vital to our longevity. Many of our team have been here for years, and that continuity has helped build trust with clients. Our people genuinely care about what they do, and that shows in the results.

Q: How would you describe the values at the heart of Ruddocks?

Henry: They centre around care and commitment, both to our customers and our team. We take the time to understand our clients and give advice that works for them. It’s not just about doing the job; it’s about thinking it through.

With our team, we focus on support, trust, and encouragement. People need to know their contribution matters. We empower them to make decisions, take responsibility, and even make mistakes; that’s how we grow.

Q: Ruddocks recently became a Certified B Corporation. What does that mean to you?

Henry: It feels like a natural step. We’ve been living B Corp values for decades, environmentally, socially, and within our team. The certification acknowledges what’s been at our core for years.

B Corp is highly respected, and being recognised among some of the world’s oldest certified companies is proof that the way we do business really matters.

Q: Ruddocks has deep roots in Lincoln. How important is community to you?

Henry: It’s fundamental. We’ve been part of Lincoln for over 140 years, and giving back has always been part of who we are. From supporting local and national causes through donations, work-in-kind and practical help, to education and our volunteering scheme, we know that small acts can make a big difference.

We also have great relationships with our suppliers. They’re part of our extended family, built on loyalty and mutual respect.

Q: Looking ahead, what excites you most about Ruddocks’ future?

Henry: Our purpose won’t change, but how we achieve it will. The blend of print and digital continues to evolve, and that’s exciting. Despite all the technological advances, print remains special, tangible, lasting, and human.

AI will change the landscape again, but as long as we stay adaptable and true to our values, we’ll continue to thrive.

Q: What advice would you give to future generations of Ruddocks?

Henry: Watch the cash! Be modest and calculated. And above all, maintain your integrity. People remember how you treat them. My father was a man of integrity, and that’s one of the reasons we’re still here today.

QUOTE

“It’s been an absolute privilege to be part of this business,” says Henry. “Ruddocks has always stood for honesty, care, and hard work, values that run right through every person here. I have no

doubt the same spirit that has carried us through 140 years will carry us through the next 140.”

Henry Ruddock, Chairman, Ruddocks